Press Information Bureau

Pranav Soorma, born on October 4, 1994, in Faridabad, Haryana, has become a name to reckon with in the world of para-athletics. Competing in the Men’s Club Throw F51 category, Pranav secured a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, adding another remarkable achievement to his ever-growing list of accomplishments. His powerful throw, marked by precision and technique, earned him accolades on the global stage.

 

Struggles to Success

 

Pranav's journey has been marked by incredible challenges and equally inspiring triumphs. At the age of 16, his life took a drastic turn when a cement sheet fell on him, causing a severe spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed. Despite the grim prognosis and months of hospitalization, Pranav's indomitable attitude helped him navigate through his new reality. Determined not to let the disability define him, he began meditating and eventually found solace and passion in para-sports. While recovering in the hospital, his friends introduced him to the world of para-athletics. This spark led to his eventual rise in the sport, making him a celebrated figure in the Men’s Club Throw F51 category.

 

Academic and Professional Journey

 

Pranav has not only excelled in sports but also in academics. He scored an impressive 91.2 per cent in his 12th board exams and pursued a postgraduate degree in commerce from the prestigious Delhi School of Economics. Currently, he is an Assistant Manager at the Bank of Baroda, balancing his professional life with his commitment to athletics.

 

Achievements

 

Pranav Soorma's achievements in para-athletics highlight his exceptional talent and dedication. At the 2022 Asian Para Games (held in 2023), he set an Asian record with a 30.01-meter throw, winning the gold medal in the Men's Club Throw F51 event. He continued his winning streak by securing gold medals at the Serbia Open in both 2024 and 2023, as well as the Czech International Championships in 2024. At the Tunis Grand Prix in 2022, Pranav competed in two events within his category and took home a gold and a silver medal for each event. Additionally, his strong performance at the 2024 World Championships, where he finished 4th, underscores his status as one of the top para-athletes in his category globally.

 

Government’s Contribution to Success

 

Pranav Soorma's journey to success has been significantly bolstered by the support provided by the Indian government. Through key initiatives like the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Pranav received financial assistance for his training, competitions, and sports equipment, allowing him to compete at the highest level. Additionally, he benefited from an out-of-pocket allowance to cover his expenses during international events. The government also facilitated his access to world-class training facilities, helping him hone his skills and achieve remarkable results.

 

A Rising Star!

 

Pranav Soorma’s silver medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics reflects his dedication and passion for the sport. His story of overcoming physical limitations and excelling on the world stage continues to inspire others. From a devastating injury to becoming a Paralympic medalist, Pranav’s journey reminds us of the power of persistence and the endless possibilities of self-belief and determination.

 

Referenceshttps://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2052003

INDIAN ATHLETES: PARIS PARALYMPICS 2024 pdf

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Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria /Madiha Iqbal

 

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